Herzog Welcomes African Muslim Leaders to Advance Cooperation With Israel

Herzog told the visitors that their arrival carried particular weight at a time of global misinformation about Israel, saying their firsthand experience would help counter distorted narratives abroad.

By Shula Rosen

President Isaac Herzog met a group of senior Muslim religious leaders from five West African nations on Monday in Jerusalem, using the visit to promote interfaith engagement and highlight Israel’s expanding ties across the continent.

The delegation, arranged by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, included imams and community figures from Senegal, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, and Togo who arrived to advocate for cooperation between African Muslim communities and Israel.

Herzog told the visitors that their arrival carried particular weight at a time of global misinformation about Israel, saying their firsthand experience would help counter distorted narratives abroad.

He pointed to Israel’s recent diplomatic efforts in Africa, recalling his trip last month to Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo as part of a broader strategy to deepen long-term partnerships.

During the meeting, the visitors described their affection for Israel and spoke about the emotional impact of seeing sacred Islamic sites.

They said they intended to relay what they witnessed to their communities upon returning home.

According to participants, the purpose of the mission was both spiritual and practical, aimed at strengthening ties between Jews and Muslims and creating space for regional cooperation.

Herzog welcomed their presence warmly. “We are very honored to have you here,” he said, noting that their participation sent “a big message from the Muslim communities of Africa.”

He added that Israel seeks closer relations with African nations and appreciates dialogue with Muslim leaders even during challenging periods. He encouraged the group to view the country through its own eyes, hoping the visit would be “emotional, spiritual, and also practical.”

He also referenced recent diplomatic developments, calling the UN Security Council resolution adopted 10 days earlier “historic” and crediting President Donald Trump and his team for securing cooperation from moderate Muslim governments. Herzog said their efforts had led to the release of Israeli hostages and were now driving the next steps, which include removing Hamas from control in Gaza and advancing a plan for new governance for Palestinians.

Herzog emphasized that these measures were intended to pave the way toward broader regional peace rooted in the Abraham Accords. He told the delegation that their voices could help counter widespread incitement, describing Israel as a nation seeking to contribute positively “in the world, including in Africa,” and expressing hope that the continent could serve as a bridge for reconciliation.